Human Performance Laboratory
Unlocking potential through research and innovation.
It’s one thing to read about a subject in a book, but it’s entirely another to see and feel the concepts you learn about in class, up close and personal. That’s what the Integrative Physiology and Health Science (IPHS) Human Performance Laboratory allows – it lets you experience concepts firsthand in the lab, observing what it looks like and how it feels in real time. This immersive learning approach helps solidify classroom knowledge all the while increasing student technical skills in performing and interpreting real-world assessments, preparing students for future careers or graduate studies.
Advanced equipment and tools
Our lab features an array of high-tech equipment that supports both teaching and cutting-edge research:
- DEXA Scanner: We’re the only MIAA school with a DEXA scanner, a crucial tool for body composition analysis. Often found in hospital settings for bone and body composition analyses, the DEXA is easy for students to learn and operate, giving them valuable skills in using industry-standard technology.
- Metabolic Analyzers: With three metabolic analyzers in the lab, including two standing carts and one portable unit, students can measure VO2 max and other important metabolic variables. The portable analyzer also allows for testing outside the lab.
- Biopac: Our Biopac system provides a comprehensive suite of physiological measurement tools to monitor various body systems such as respiratory and muscular function in real time.
- Ultrasound Machine: For muscle, blood vessel, and tissue analysis, our ultrasound machine helps students explore and assess body mechanics.
- Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS): This non-invasive tool provides real-time data on muscle oxygenation and performance before, during, and after exercise.
- Biodex: Often found in high-end rehabilitation facilities, this system allows for assessment of muscular function and power across many muscle groups and at various movement speeds and joint angles.
- EKG machines: With three portable and two exercise-based EKG machines, students can learn to monitor and interpret cardiac function and heart health.
- Wearable technology: The lab contains a host of wearable technologies from companies including Hexoskin, ActiGraph, Oura, Garmin, and Polar, allowing for assessments of heart rate, physical activity level, cardiovascular strain, and sleep both in and out of the lab.
In addition, the lab is equipped with treadmills, stationary cycles, and other cardiovascular tools, creating a comprehensive environment for assessing heart health and endurance.
Research and student opportunities
We’re proud to foster an environment where research thrives. About half of IPHS majors engage in research through independent studies, senior theses, or summer research programs. With a robust set of tools at their disposal, students are able to translate theoretical knowledge into actionable insights and be involved in all stages of research, from study conception to presentation and publication of results. In keeping with our goal to engage students in all stages of research, the IPHS department recently launched and oversees a peer-reviewed journal, the Journal of Integrative Physiology, which serves as an outlet for student-focused research from Alma College as well as other institutions throughout the country and world.
Thanks to our wide range of involvement with the local community, we’re able to invite members of the public into the Human Performance Laboratory for various projects, such as a program that benefits the cardiovascular health of firefighters and another that helps middle-school children who are interested in science.
The lab is also home to a competitive grant program, offering students the chance to apply for funding to carry out their own research projects. These grants are well-supported, and students receive guidance from faculty in crafting and submitting successful proposals.
